Hugs, brushing and Riding with Horses

Today was much warmer than I had anticipated. I wore a long sleeved top and my winter riding coat and by the time I'd finished brushing my tall, white friend, I was well and truly hot.

My bridle fitting was much better today and tacking up is seemingly getting easier and faster so more efficient every time I do it. I'm often left to brush the horses while other tasks are being done around the yard which is more than OK with me. Hugs with Horses are amazing!

He was half asleep this morning so took a bit more work to get him forward and raring to go. It's rained so much the past few weeks, the ground was not so great so our canters were not as fabulous as they have been. My instructor had me doing a few trots to get him more forward while we attempted another canter. They're coming along much better and I can get him forward but I'm seemingly not getting the seat part just right. I almost had it a few weeks ago but my control is improving so I know it will come.

I have on occasion, a habit to tilt to the left. Goodness knows where that has come from. I just need to remember to keep my heels down whenever I squeeze for a canter. And although I'm not getting perfect canters just yet, the odd one that is good shows how much I've improved. Gaining control is essential when riding I believe so despite the minor set backs, I know I'll get there.

I enjoyed the ride very much though and it is always seems to feel more natural. Hands and legs are constantly improving and that's part of what I enjoy, the continued learning and growing relationship between myself and the horses.

After I untacked and gave my friend a few polos, I ended up helping out a little on the yard and brushing one of the smaller ponies. I love doing what I can and hope to be more of a help around the yard in time. Sounds crazy, but even tasks like mucking out will make me feel more useful once I know how.

That's all for today, Thanks for reading,

Marie